Truro-based Ignition, a leading provider of vehicle and asset finance for UK SMEs, is welcoming two new members to its growing team. Nicola Hambly has been appointed as Associate Director, with Dave Smith joining as an Appointed Representative.

Ignition offers finance for a wide range of assets from plant and machinery to vehicles and business equipment, providing flexible solutions either using its own funds or via joint trading relationships with a panel of major finance houses.  Whilst the company supports customers in many different sectors across the country, its heartland lies in the Southwest, where both new recruits will be looking to further consolidate and strengthen the Ignition offer.  

Originally from Plymouth, Nicola has worked in the banking and finance industry for more than 20 years, having spent 15 years in branch, area and regional banking roles within HSBC before taking up Asset Finance roles with Lloyds Bank, and most recently as Regional Broker Manager for the Southwest of England at Shawbrook Bank.  An active and well-respected member of the business community, Nicola is looking forward to working with existing contacts as well as engaging with new clients across the region.  She comments:

“It’s an exciting time to be joining the Ignition team.  SMEs have faced huge challenges in recent years, but there is plenty we can do to help them succeed and grow.  I’m looking forward to further strengthening Ignition’s position within the region, whilst continuing to provide vital support for the many resilient businesses here.”

Cornish born and bred, Dave Smith has a wealth of experience in Asset Finance, having worked for Lombard for 40 years, most recently as the Relationship Director covering Devon and Cornwall, followed by a further 3 years as a Relationship Director with Henry Howard Asset Finance (now Propel Finance). Also highly-regarded and well-connected within the regional business community, in his new role with Ignition, Dave’s principal focus will be supporting SMEs across Cornwall and Devon. He comments:

“Ignition has a lot to offer local SME’s and has been playing an important role in supporting these businesses for a very long time and through some difficult years. Ignition offers in my opinion a very efficient service, providing top quality, friendly and positive customer experiences. It’s great to be part of the Ignition team, helping both individual businesses and the wider community thrive.”

Commenting on the new appointments, Managing Director Paul Caunter, said:

“We’re delighted to be welcoming Nicola and Dave on board, particularly at such a busy time when the economy is beginning to recover and businesses are looking for new opportunities.  Both bring a huge amount of experience and dedication to their respective roles and will be instrumental in taking the business forward.”